Having written to the Welsh Government to highlight concerns raised with him in relation to the North Wales Fire and Rescue Service, including their reported reluctance to respond to whistleblowers, Vale of Clwyd MP Dr James Davies has welcomed news that an independent review is to be conducted into workplace culture and values at the service.
Earlier this month, the Welsh Government confirmed that both North Wales and Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Services have agreed to carry out an independent review.
It comes after an ITV Wales investigation looking into the culture within North Wales Fire and Rescue Service saw 35 whistle-blowers come forward, with one describing "sexual harassment and physical assault" at the service.
James made repeated calls for such action and is therefore pleased that a review is now taking place.
He said:
“I wrote to the Deputy Minister in charge of overseeing fire services, Hannah Blythyn MS, after hearing from a constituent and speaking with an ITN Journalist who has been involved in actively investigating a number of Fire Services across the UK, including South Wales.
“Concerns have been raised in North Wales which are equally, if not more concerning than those in other areas. I told the Deputy Minister that “these allegations and concerns need to be further scrutinised in relation to North Wales, as it would appear to me that it may require intervention along the lines of that in South Wales”.
“I am therefore extremely pleased that a review is to be carried out. It is the right decision, but it is important that those involved are given assurances that the process will be fully independent and that the terms of reference are adequate.
“I have been told that many people look at recent reports from South Wales and worry that a review will mean nothing changes. This cannot be allowed to happen.
"The allegations which have been made about North Wales Fire and Recue Service are deeply concerning and it is only right that they are explored. It is disappointing that it took the Welsh Government so long to respond to the allegations and to outline what they were going to do about it.
“We need to ensure that everyone in the Fire Service feels safe and that people are not afraid to speak out when they witness or experience inappropriate behaviour.
“A report on North Wales Fire and Rescue Service is expected to be published no later than autumn 2024.”
